Volodymyr Lytvyn told reporters in Kyiv the decision to dismiss the government was "just."

Lytvyn's comments come after President Viktor Yushchenko called on lawmakers to reconsider their decision.

Parliament on 10 January voted to dismiss Yekhanurov and his government over a controversial gas deal with Russia.

Both Yushchenko and Yekhanurov have described the move as anti-constitutional and have said the government will continue working until parliamentary elections in March.

Yushchenko is due to address the nation on television later today.

(compiled from agency reports)

Gas Facts

Click on the map for an enlarged image.

Ukraine consumes 70 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas per year. It produces 20 bcm of its own gas, has a signed contract to import 40 bcm from Turkmenistan, and in 2005 was getting 29 bcm from Russia as payment for transit of Russian gas.

Ukraine sells some 7 bcm of gas a year to the West and places some in underground storage facilities. These facilities can hold 34.5 bcm.